Great Northern

The work continues towards our ‘go live’ of digital signalling between Welwyn and Hitchin on the East Coast Main Line later this year.

Last month we took another step forward when, for the first time, more than two trains ran using the European Train Control System (ETCS) at the same time on the East Coast Main Line. It also involved the first time a train had operated in one ETCS area and then another on its journey.

Check out the below video explaining how it happened 👇

1 week ago | [YT] | 2

Great Northern

The East Coast Digital Programme (ECDP) is replacing traditional signals with European Train Control System (ETCS) in-cab signalling between Welwyn Garden City and Hitchin.

Regular testing is ongoing, with plans for full ETCS operation to improve capacity, aiming for full digital operation in the coming years.

Check out our new video which explains the key steps behind ETCS testing on the Welwyn Garden City to Hitchin stretch 🚆

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 2

Great Northern

Transitioning a train in and out of an ETCS area requires careful execution to uphold safety and operational continuity.

Check out our below video explaining the key steps 🚆

3 weeks ago | [YT] | 3

Great Northern

Did you catch ETCS being mentioned on BBC Tech Now?

It featured the Northern City Line (Britain’s first urban commuter railway to be fully controlled by ETCS) and the benefits ETCS is bringing – which presenter Paul Carter eloquently described as ‘the brain’ of the railway.

Some of our ECDP colleagues joined the show, including Simon Cowley, GTR (Govia Thameslink Railway)'s Testing Training Manager from inside the driver’s cab, Matt Rose, Signaller Manager Trainer at Network Rail and Joe Marshall, Signaller at York ROC at Network Rail. Sarah-Jane Crawford, our Industry Partnership Director also talked about how the benefits of ETCS can be exploited across the railway.

Huge thanks go to GTR and to Network Rail Eastern Region East Coast Operations at York ROC for their support in enabling this.

Credit - BBC Tech Now

1 month ago | [YT] | 0

Great Northern

We spoke to some of our team who were out on the East Coast Main Line (ECML) throughout February completing essential updates and testing on our European Train Control System (ETCS) systems and equipment.

The East Coast Digital Programme will transform our railway through digital in-cab signalling to be more efficient, more reliable, greener and even safer. Find out more about the rigorous testing we are doing in our latest video.

1 month ago | [YT] | 2

Great Northern

Positive progress made at Hertford North’s Access for All scheme 🙌💜

Progress continues at pace on accessibility upgrades at Hertford North, helping to make the station more inclusive and welcoming.

The project involves installing a new lift to platform 1, providing all passengers – particularly those with limited mobility, heavy luggage or pushchairs – with a step-free, more accessible route to the platform.

The project recently reached a new milestone with the new lift shaft superstructure installed and lift shaft cladding completed.

Carl Martin, accessibility lead for Great Northern, which operates Hertford North station, said: “It’s extremely encouraging to see progress being made.

Our community at Hertford North deserves full access to the station, which is why we were so pleased when the government confirmed funding for this scheme.”

“The installation of the lift shaft superstructure marks a key step towards making Hertford North more accessible for all our passengers. We continue to work closely with industry partners to deliver these improvements as quickly as possible and we’re grateful to residents for their patience and support while the upgrades are being carried out.”

2 months ago | [YT] | 3

Great Northern

You asked, we listened! 🚆

We have added an additional weekday services to the morning rush hour with another planned for the evening peak to provide more seats and faster journeys our passengers at many stations between Cambridge, Letchworth Garden City and London King’s Cross 🙌

The two services are a follow-up to the successful series of improvements we introduced last December as part of the time table change.

2 months ago | [YT] | 6

Great Northern

Ahead of National Apprenticeship Week, next week, we are proud to share that more women than ever are starting apprenticeships with Southern, Thameslink, Great Northern & Gatwick Express.

In 2025, 106 female colleagues have joined our programmes, a 49% increase on the previous year. With 420 employees beginning an apprenticeship last year and a new Women in Leadership Level 3 and 5 courses now in place, we’re continuing to support colleagues to build skills, grow in confidence and progress their careers.

One colleague already benefiting is Natalie, a Skilled Maintenance Operative who joined us in 2020 after changing careers. Currently studying the Level 3 Women in Leadership apprenticeship, Natalie says the course has strengthened her confidence and professional development. With 19 apprenticeship programmes available to both new and existing employees, we remain committed to investing in our people and creating a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve!

2 months ago | [YT] | 4

Great Northern

Want to win some exclusive Great Northern merch?

Head to these three locations along our network before the 22nd February 2026 to collect your stamp in our Do the Railway the Right Way guides and unlock some exclusive Great Northern merch!

🛤️ Nene Valley Railway
☎️ Cambridge Museum of Technology
🏠 Oliver Cromwells House

Pick up your guide at one of the three locations!

3 months ago | [YT] | 6

Great Northern

Discover things to do, what's on, places to eat & drink and where to stay in Cambridge!

Watch now! 🚆👇

https://youtu.be/ziYfTk6pC_o?si=nQXpC...

3 months ago | [YT] | 1